Ideas for Bedside Reports for Nurses in a Hospital Setting

Shift report is a task that is unique to nurses. It is an essential part of providing continuity of care from one shift to the next, transferring critical information from one caregiver to another. Recently, a trend has developed of performing shift report at the patient's bedside. Bedside report has the advantage of involving the patient in this critical time and can help put a mind at ease. This also is a good opportunity for the patient and oncoming shift nurse to meet. As well, when the two nurses assess the patient together, it helps develop a snapshot of the patient's condition at that moment.

Report Template

• A report template must exist and be followed so that reporting is efficient and complete. Five basic areas ensure that vital information is passed to the oncoming nurse. First, head-to-toe assessment of the patient identifies current issues. This is done with the patient's input. The second area accompanies the first: nurse-to-nurse examination. This gives the two nurses an opportunity to discuss the assessment while viewing the patient. Third, a medication check ensures safety and saves time by not having to double-check a medication or dosage. Fourth, a review of all physicians' orders helps the oncoming nurse to become familiar with all new orders as well as where the order process is at the time. Lastly, the nurses and patient discuss the plan of care and goals for the upcoming 12 hours.

Staff Involvement

• Involving a team of nurses, educators, clinical managers and care coordinators in the creation of the template can help identify priorities in the bedside reporting process. Successful bedside reporting examples are available on the Internet to refer to when deciding what information is critical. Keep best practices in mind when deciding on the structure and content of bedside reporting.

Patient Privacy

• In a semiprivate room or ward situation, the patient's privacy must be protected from roommates. It is important to ask the patient if he prefers a bedside report. If the patient is uncomfortable with the idea and is ambulatory, ask if he would prefer to move to a private space. Make sure the patient's wishes are met with in regard to his privacy.

Patient Involvement

• During the bedside report, make sure the patient has the opportunity to provide commentary. Nurses also should strive to make the patient feel comfortable in asking questions. The patient should be asked what goals he would like to meet in the subsequent 12 hours.

Family Involvement

• The involvement of a patient's family is critical to the healing process. When families are involved in shift report, the information they receive can help make them feel safe and informed. Family members also can provide additional information to round out the report.